Napoli fan shot before Coppa Italia final passes away

Napoli fan Ciro Esposito has passed away after succumbing to his injuries after being shot in the leadup to the Coppa Italia final between Napoli and Fiorentina.

The 31-year old Azzurri supporter had been in the intensive care unit at Rome’s Policlinico Gemelli hospital after being shot outside of the Olympic Stadium before the start of the Coppa Italia final on May 3 between Napoli and the Viola.

Esposito underwent lung surgery, the latest operation performed in an effort to save Esposito’s life, but was unable to overcome his injuries after spending 50 days in intensive care.

“At 6 o’clock this morning, after an ordeal that lasted 50 days, our Ciro, a hero of the people, has gone. That damn May 3. The day our Ciro stepped on to the Via Tor di Quinto in Rome to save Napolifans on a bus,” read a statement released by Esposito’s family.

The suspect, Daniele De Santis, is currently being held on charges of murder.

The reported Roma fan is accused of provoking Napoli fans with smoke bombs, and when they reacted unfavourably, it is reported that he began shooting at them with one of his bullets striking Esposito.